Punta Arenas: Penguin Colony Navigation Magdalena Island
We sail daily to the “Los Pingüinos Natural Monument,” located 35 km northwest of Punta Arenas, in the Magallanes and Chilean Antarctic Region. Our journey through the Strait of Magellan takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes; we will spend 1 hour on the island before returning to Punta Arenas.
Magdalena Island is home to thousands of Magellanic penguins, and offers a unique opportunity to observe these birds in their natural habitat during their breeding season. We can also observe kelp gulls, cormorants, Chilean skuas, and other bird species that inhabit the island.
AM Navigation:
07:00 Check-in Muelle Prat
08:00 Departure from Punta Arenas
09:30 Arrival at the Island
10:30 Departure from the Island
12:00 Arrival at Muelle Prat
PM Navigation:
13:30 Check-in Muelle Prat
14:30 Departure from Punta Arenas
16:00 Arrival at the Island
17:00 Departure from the Island
18:30 Arrival at Muelle Prat
Departures
Once we set sail, we will head towards Magdalena Island, part of the “Los Pingüinos Natural Monument.” The trip takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, and we’ll sail through the Strait of Magellan. During this time, our guides will provide information about the tour in both English and Spanish. Along the way, there are opportunities to spot various species of local wildlife, such as Peale’s dolphins, sea lions, different types of birds, and sei whales.
As we approach the island, the guides will conduct a briefing on the rules imposed by CONAF to ensure a safe and respectful visit to the island. Upon disembarking, you will have one hour to explore the island and observe the penguins in their natural habitat.
Afterward, we get back onboard to begin our return journey to Punta Arenas. During the return, guides will offer a talk about the Magellanic penguin and its breeding season for those interested. Upon arrival at port, passengers in the tourist cabin will disembark at the dock and will head out of the port on their own.
Day by day itinerary
Day 1 — Penguin Colony Navigation Magdalena Island
Check-in at Muelle Prat (Av. Costanera del Estrecho de Magallanes 1398, Punta Arenas)
- You'll arrive at Muelle Prat, where we'll prepare to board and begin our journey to the impressive Magdalena Island.
Departure from Punta Arenas
- After setting sail, we will begin a fascinating journey through the Strait of Magellan toward the charming Isla Magdalena, part of the renowned "Monumento Natural Los Pingüinos." During this approximately 1 hour and 30-minute trip, our guides, in both Spanish and English, will share fascinating details about the history and biodiversity of the region. Along the way, there will be opportunities to spot a variety of local wildlife, including austral dolphins, sea lions, various bird species, and, if lucky, the majestic sei whales.
Arrival at Isla Magdalena
- As we approach the island, our guides will provide a brief orientation on the rules established by CONAF to ensure a safe and respectful visit to the natural environment. Once we disembark, you will have an hour to freely explore this unique natural sanctuary, where you can observe the Magellanic penguins in their natural habitat and enjoy their behavior in an environment of unparalleled beauty.
Departure from Isla Magdalena
- After finishing your exploration of the island, we will board again to return to Punta Arenas. During the return journey, those interested can enjoy an insightful talk about the Magellanic penguin and its reproductive cycle, delivered by our expert guides.
Arrival at Muelle Prat
- Upon our arrival at Punta Arenas dock, passengers will be able to continue their journey independently, taking with them the memories of an unforgettable experience in this fascinating corner of the world.